UK HGV sales fall for first time in three years

Despite the decline, the total number of new HGVs registered stood at 44,988 units, marking the second-best annual performance since 2019. However, a slowdown in zero-emission truck adoption remains a significant concern, with uptake stagnating at just 0.5% of total demand – the same level as in 2023.

The year-end results indicate a 3.3% drop in Q4, reflecting a cooling of demand following strong post-pandemic fleet renewal activity. This quarterly decline suggests that economic pressures, supply chain disruptions, and fleet investment caution influenced purchasing decisions in the latter half of the year.

DAF leads, while MAN and Renault struggle to keep up

A breakdown of vehicle types reveals a mixed picture. While articulated truck registrations fell by 12.4% to 19,079 units, demand for certain rigid body types grew, with box trucks up 13.4%, curtain-sided trucks rising 7.1%, and tippers increasing slightly by 0.9%. Tractors remained the most popular body type, yet their registrations fell by 13.4% to 18,570 units.

 The brand-specific performance data reveals that DAF Trucks retained its market leader position, followed by Mercedes-Benz, Scania, and Volvo Trucks. However, MAN and Renault Trucks struggled to maintain their market share, showing weaker registration figures compared to previous years.

Zero-emission truck sales stagnate

The UK government has set ambitious decarbonisation targets, including a ban on the sale of new non-zero emission HGVs up to 26 tonnes by 2035. Yet, the reality on the ground remains starkly different. The number of newly registered zero-emission HGVs fell by 7.3%, with only 217 units delivered in 2024.

“A slight decline in truck fleet renewal reflects a sector that is normalising after strong post-Covid growth. However, with most of the market nearly one full investment cycle away from the 2035 deadline, urgent action is needed to address stagnant zero-emission uptake,” said Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of SMMT.

Manufacturers have made significant investments in zero-emission technology, but high acquisition costs and inadequate charging infrastructure remain major obstacles. There are currently fewer than five dedicated HGV chargepoints across the UK, a glaring shortfall for widespread adoption.

“The industry is delivering the products – now operators must be convinced to invest,” Hawes added. “Meaningful fiscal support and infrastructure rollout is essential for making the fleet transition a viable commercial decision.”

Fleet operators cite high costs as a key barrier

Fleet operators have expressed concerns about the total cost of ownership (TCO) of zero-emission trucks. While electric and hydrogen-powered models promise lower long-term running costs, higher upfront costs and the need for depot infrastructure upgrades remain significant hurdles.

“While we want to invest in sustainable transport, the numbers don’t add up yet. Until government incentives increase and infrastructure improves, diesel trucks remain the more practical choice,” one fleet manager shared with SMMT.

The Plug-in Truck Grant, which has provided financial incentives for fleet operators since 2016, is set to expire in six weeks. While a replacement programme will be available to selected fleets under the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator programme, the full impact is not expected until 2030 at the earliest. Industry leaders are calling for stronger fiscal incentives and infrastructure development to accelerate the transition.

The UK HGV market remains in flux as fleet operators weigh economic uncertainties against long-term investment in sustainable transport. With an estimated three-quarters of the market needing to transition to zero-emission models within the next decade, 2024’s figures highlight the urgent need for policy clarity and expanded charging infrastructure